Friday, March 24, 2006
I should be grading papers ... but I'm so far behind
It's Friday, and I'm exhausted. I've had a fairly productive day, up until about 11:15 or so. That's when I just lost steam. So, instead of grading papers or doing something else productive (cleaning lab), I've just been sitting at the desk, thinking about all the ways I could be productive, without actually being productive.
Classes have actually been going well. However, now that 4th quarter is upon us, I'm starting to freak out a bit. Yup, I haven't covered nearly enough material the past three quarters. So, now I'm trying to figure out how to get "caught-up", but without going to fast. About the only class that is actually on track is Earth Science, and I think I'm actually ahead of schedule.
So here's what we are presently studying in my classes, and what I still need to cover, in 9 weeks. (And because of track, Easter, and other activities, it's more like 7 1/2 weeks.)
Earth Science
Astronomy
(So this isn't that bad. I think I can spend 6 weeks talking covering astronomy. I will probably need 2 weeks alone just to cover the planets.)
Chemistry
Chapter 21 - Solutions
Chapter 24 - Acids, Bases, & Salts
Chapter 30 - Classes of Organic Compounds
(Not quite too bad. Although I probably won't have time to cover chapter 30, I should have enough time to get through acids and bases.)
Life Science
Chapter 13 - Vertebrates
Chapter 14 - Heredity
Chapter 15 - Animal Behavior
(Well, I still have about 1/3 of simple animals to cover. Animal behavior will definitely not happen this year, unless I really rush through vertebrates.)
Physical Science
Chapter 13 - Organic & Biological Compounds
Chapter 18 - Waves & Sound
Chapter 19 - Light
Chapter 20 - Mirrors & Lenses
(Well, it looks like I'm going to have to eliminate chapters 12 and 13 this year so that I have enough time to get through waves and light. I guess if there is enough time at the end of the year, I can go back to chapter 12. Perhaps I'll just assign a group of elements to a student and they will have to do a powerpoint on it. Only if there is time ...)
Biology
Chapter 32 - Fish
Chapter 33 - Amphibians
Chapter 9 - Basis of Heredity
Chapter 10 - Chromosomes & Genes
Chapter 11 - Human Inheritance
Chapter 12 - Applications of Genetics
(Crap that looks like a lot to cover. Well, it looks like Fish are OUT. I'll have to cover Chordates in about a week. Then I'll cover Chapter 9 in detail. After that, I'll combine chapters 10, 11, and 12 into one. Hmmm... I guess that would be the condensed version.)
Advanced Biology
Fetal Pig Dissection
(Overall, not too bad of shape. Past years have showen that the pig dissection takes about 4 weeks to do properly. So, it looks like I'll have enough time.)
Classes have actually been going well. However, now that 4th quarter is upon us, I'm starting to freak out a bit. Yup, I haven't covered nearly enough material the past three quarters. So, now I'm trying to figure out how to get "caught-up", but without going to fast. About the only class that is actually on track is Earth Science, and I think I'm actually ahead of schedule.
So here's what we are presently studying in my classes, and what I still need to cover, in 9 weeks. (And because of track, Easter, and other activities, it's more like 7 1/2 weeks.)
Earth Science
- Currently studying
- Still Need Cover
Astronomy
(So this isn't that bad. I think I can spend 6 weeks talking covering astronomy. I will probably need 2 weeks alone just to cover the planets.)
Chemistry
- Currently Studying
- Still Need To Cover
Chapter 21 - Solutions
Chapter 24 - Acids, Bases, & Salts
Chapter 30 - Classes of Organic Compounds
(Not quite too bad. Although I probably won't have time to cover chapter 30, I should have enough time to get through acids and bases.)
Life Science
- Currently Studying
- Still Need to Cover
Chapter 13 - Vertebrates
Chapter 14 - Heredity
Chapter 15 - Animal Behavior
(Well, I still have about 1/3 of simple animals to cover. Animal behavior will definitely not happen this year, unless I really rush through vertebrates.)
Physical Science
- Currently Studying
- Still Need to Cover
Chapter 13 - Organic & Biological Compounds
Chapter 18 - Waves & Sound
Chapter 19 - Light
Chapter 20 - Mirrors & Lenses
(Well, it looks like I'm going to have to eliminate chapters 12 and 13 this year so that I have enough time to get through waves and light. I guess if there is enough time at the end of the year, I can go back to chapter 12. Perhaps I'll just assign a group of elements to a student and they will have to do a powerpoint on it. Only if there is time ...)
Biology
- Currently Studying
- Still Need to Cover
Chapter 32 - Fish
Chapter 33 - Amphibians
Chapter 9 - Basis of Heredity
Chapter 10 - Chromosomes & Genes
Chapter 11 - Human Inheritance
Chapter 12 - Applications of Genetics
(Crap that looks like a lot to cover. Well, it looks like Fish are OUT. I'll have to cover Chordates in about a week. Then I'll cover Chapter 9 in detail. After that, I'll combine chapters 10, 11, and 12 into one. Hmmm... I guess that would be the condensed version.)
Advanced Biology
- Currently Studying
- Still Need to Cover
Fetal Pig Dissection
(Overall, not too bad of shape. Past years have showen that the pig dissection takes about 4 weeks to do properly. So, it looks like I'll have enough time.)
Wednesday, March 22, 2006
WBC, Idol, Race, Trump
You know, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday could be my favorite days of Television.
I managed to watch the first 5 innings of the WBC championship game between Cuba and Japan. After watching, I realized that I am a big fan of Japanese baseball. I love the way the approach the game. Very disciplined. While hitting, they just try to put the ball in play. The Cuban/American style is much more of a power game, that for me, is not just that interesting. So, why the heck am I an AL fan, where the power game is stressed (by using a DH)? Anyway, Ichiro is still my favorite player in the MLB.
Right now my favorite on winning American Idol is Chris. I actually agree with Simon most of the time in his assessment of Chris. Almost every Chris performance you could "hear" on the radio. Mandeesa (sp?), is a close second in my book. Last night she just belted out her song, and may have been the best won of the evening. After that, I just don't know. I do like Taylor a lot, but I don't think he'll make it into the top 2, maybe top 5 though. I just wish "Chicken Little" would get voted off.
Well, the Amazing Race is now in Germany. I must say, those two hippie/surfer guys are really growing on me. They not only are having fun, but also are helping out other teams.
As far as the Apprentice, no one candidate has stuck out as one I like. Yes, a few are real pains, but I can't see any one of those people working for Trump. I must admit though, I'm having lots of fun watching Lenny argue with his team.
I managed to watch the first 5 innings of the WBC championship game between Cuba and Japan. After watching, I realized that I am a big fan of Japanese baseball. I love the way the approach the game. Very disciplined. While hitting, they just try to put the ball in play. The Cuban/American style is much more of a power game, that for me, is not just that interesting. So, why the heck am I an AL fan, where the power game is stressed (by using a DH)? Anyway, Ichiro is still my favorite player in the MLB.
Right now my favorite on winning American Idol is Chris. I actually agree with Simon most of the time in his assessment of Chris. Almost every Chris performance you could "hear" on the radio. Mandeesa (sp?), is a close second in my book. Last night she just belted out her song, and may have been the best won of the evening. After that, I just don't know. I do like Taylor a lot, but I don't think he'll make it into the top 2, maybe top 5 though. I just wish "Chicken Little" would get voted off.
Well, the Amazing Race is now in Germany. I must say, those two hippie/surfer guys are really growing on me. They not only are having fun, but also are helping out other teams.
As far as the Apprentice, no one candidate has stuck out as one I like. Yes, a few are real pains, but I can't see any one of those people working for Trump. I must admit though, I'm having lots of fun watching Lenny argue with his team.
Monday, March 20, 2006
Science Expo, 4th Quarter
Today is the start of the 4th quarter. So, you know what that means, Grades are due on Wednesday. Luckily for me, I'm pretty much caught up on all my grading (pretty much responsible for my lack of posts the last 2 weeks or so).
Since the quarter has started, I feel I need a change. I think that one of these afternoons this week, I'm going to rearrange my classroom. I think the students would appreciate a change.
Last Friday was the Billings Deaconess Research Clinic Science Expo. Essentially it is the Eastern Montana Regional Science Fair. Anyway, I took 5 students from the school, 3 6th graders and 2 7th graders. I believe they had lots of fun. They didn't win any awards, but I do hope they enjoyed themselves. The highlight of the fair had to have been the full size T-Rex skeleton. I'm assuming it was not the real thing (too valuable), but a casting or a replica of some sort.
Lastly, there is another ski trip scheduled. Yup one week from today (March 27th). I don't think the students need 2 ski trips in a school year.
Since the quarter has started, I feel I need a change. I think that one of these afternoons this week, I'm going to rearrange my classroom. I think the students would appreciate a change.
Last Friday was the Billings Deaconess Research Clinic Science Expo. Essentially it is the Eastern Montana Regional Science Fair. Anyway, I took 5 students from the school, 3 6th graders and 2 7th graders. I believe they had lots of fun. They didn't win any awards, but I do hope they enjoyed themselves. The highlight of the fair had to have been the full size T-Rex skeleton. I'm assuming it was not the real thing (too valuable), but a casting or a replica of some sort.
Lastly, there is another ski trip scheduled. Yup one week from today (March 27th). I don't think the students need 2 ski trips in a school year.
Yet another quick post
Quick post. Yes, I'm still alive, but boy am I tired.
Last week turned out to be busier than I thought it would be. I didn't have nearly the time at work or home to post as much as I wanted. My wife has been battling some nasty cough, which has just zapped her strength. As a result, most of the household duties had fallen to me when she couldn't help out.
Just a couple quick thoughts:
Boy, those national broadcasters (you know who they are), that thought the mid-major conferences didn't belong in the tournament, sure were wrong. Missouri Valley Conference has 2 in the sweet 16, and the big 10, none. I love it when the "experts" are wrong.
Montana won their first NCAA tournament game in 31 years! Yup, they beat the Nevada Wolfpack. It sure was a great game to listen to on the radio. To bad the game against Boston College didn't have the same outcome. However, the Grizzlies did play well. Good job Griz!!!
As my wife has told me many times (and now I'm telling you), the people that went and saw some of the opening round games were treated to some awesome ones. Granted there were some blowouts, but most of the games were competitive. Many of the games even came down to the last few seconds.
Switching gears, when is Chicken Little (don't remember his actual name), going to get the boot on American Idol. Not my favorite (That would have to be Chris and Taylor!)
How 'bout them hippie/surfer guys on the Amazing Race. They're kinda growing on me.
Lastly, there is a new episode of "How I met your mother" on CBS tonight. Boy I can't wait!!!
Last week turned out to be busier than I thought it would be. I didn't have nearly the time at work or home to post as much as I wanted. My wife has been battling some nasty cough, which has just zapped her strength. As a result, most of the household duties had fallen to me when she couldn't help out.
Just a couple quick thoughts:
Boy, those national broadcasters (you know who they are), that thought the mid-major conferences didn't belong in the tournament, sure were wrong. Missouri Valley Conference has 2 in the sweet 16, and the big 10, none. I love it when the "experts" are wrong.
Montana won their first NCAA tournament game in 31 years! Yup, they beat the Nevada Wolfpack. It sure was a great game to listen to on the radio. To bad the game against Boston College didn't have the same outcome. However, the Grizzlies did play well. Good job Griz!!!
As my wife has told me many times (and now I'm telling you), the people that went and saw some of the opening round games were treated to some awesome ones. Granted there were some blowouts, but most of the games were competitive. Many of the games even came down to the last few seconds.
Switching gears, when is Chicken Little (don't remember his actual name), going to get the boot on American Idol. Not my favorite (That would have to be Chris and Taylor!)
How 'bout them hippie/surfer guys on the Amazing Race. They're kinda growing on me.
Lastly, there is a new episode of "How I met your mother" on CBS tonight. Boy I can't wait!!!
Monday, March 13, 2006
The day before Pi Day!
Just an interesting tidbit of information. My mother and mother-in-law have the same birthday. Yup, today is their birthday!!!!!
Happy Birthday to my very special mothers!
Happy Birthday to my very special mothers!
Sunday, March 12, 2006
Winter Time?
Ok, so after a week that started out in the mid to upper 50's, today it's snowing and probably won't be above 32 degrees. Gotta love it! Let's hope the Tulips are going to do ok.
Saturday, March 11, 2006
Spring Time?
I can't believe it. The Tulips are coming up!!!!!! It's not even the March 15th yet. This is just freaky.
Thursday, March 09, 2006
Twins Infield
Wow! Two posts in two days.
As promised, here is my rundown of the infield this year.
Catcher
Coming off a good year last year, Joe Mauer should be just as good, if not better this year. Offensively, he hasn't shown us the power that most have expected, but I anticipate that in the upcoming seasons that will improve. He is a very good hitter, often working the pitch count to his advantage. Most believe that he will still hit in the #3 slot, and unless he forgets how to hit, this is where I would anticipate him to be all season. Defensively he is very solid. The only question mark, still, are his knees. Gardy will keep him fresh behind the plate by giving him an occasional break by allowing him to DH. Also, after one full season, I believe he will have even better chemistry with the starting pitching and relievers. (Although to be fair, I thought he had great chemistry with them last season.)
Redmond will again be backing up Joe this year. Not quite the hitter that Mauer is, he is solid behind the plate. His experience in the majors should also help, as he may continue to play a "mentoring" role for Joe.
1st Base
No surprise here, but Justin Morneau will be our starting 1st baseman this year again. Last year was disappointing, mainly because offensively he couldn't get on track. The lack of offensive productivity from Justin was probably due to the fact that in the off season he suffered many ailments. With a much healthier off season, his numbers should improve. Most experts have him batting in the 6th slot. Defensively he is not quite at the level of his predecessor at first base (Doug Meintkiewicz), but his skills have been improving greatly.
2nd Base
In the off season, the Twins traded for Marlins 2nd Baseman, Luis Castillo. A multiple gold glove winner, defensively the Twins improved greatly at 2nd base. Last year, you might never know who would be playing 2nd base. The season started with Luis Rivas, then Punto, the failed experiment with Bret Boone, Cuddyer, Luis Rodriguez, etc. Offensively, Castillo is slated to hit in the 2nd slot initially. This may seem a little uncharacteristic for someone that is a genuine base stealer, but Shannon Stewart's OBP and ability to have long, productive at-bats will keep Castillo in that 2nd slot. The only concern about Castillo is that he has had some injury problems that past few seasons.
Short Stop
Jason Bartlett will again resume the role when the season begins. In his rookie season, Bartlett showed many that he could play at the Major league level, and at the same time, was a rookie. With one season under his belt, Bartlett should be much improved defensively, which is exactly what the Twins expect of him. Offensively, what ever numbers he produces will be considered a bonus for the Twins. Last year he showed at times a great eye, but overall was impatient. His offense (and defense) improved after a brief move down to AAA. This year he will be hitting in the 8 or 9 slot.
3rd Base
Michael Cuddyer will no longer be playing 3rd base this season. The Twin's 1 year experiment with him at 3rd could be considered a failure. In the off season, the Twins acquired Tony Batista. Batista, after a season in Japan, has returned to the Major League in a Twins uniform. Defensively he is solid at 3rd, although not spectacular. No one is quite sure of his conditioning, and that combined with his age could mean a less mobile body playing at 3rd. However, his experience should negate any affects of his aging body (or playing Cuddyer) at 3rd. Reports out of spring training though have Batista reporting in 20 lbs. over his ideal playing weight, reinforcing many people's belief that he is not Major League shape, yet. I'm not quite sold on Batista at 3rd, but I will admit that he is a major improvement from last year's experiment.
Overall thought of the infield
The Twins should be improved this year in the infield, however there are questions. 1) Will Batista be in Major League shape at the start of the season? 2) Will Bartlett be improved this season? 3) Can Morneau regain his offensive capabilities that he showed off in his rookie season (2004)? 4) Will Castillo stay healthy? 5) Mauer's Knees?
The Twins are improved in the infield, but is it enough to play ball with the ChiSox and Cleveland?
As promised, here is my rundown of the infield this year.
Catcher
Coming off a good year last year, Joe Mauer should be just as good, if not better this year. Offensively, he hasn't shown us the power that most have expected, but I anticipate that in the upcoming seasons that will improve. He is a very good hitter, often working the pitch count to his advantage. Most believe that he will still hit in the #3 slot, and unless he forgets how to hit, this is where I would anticipate him to be all season. Defensively he is very solid. The only question mark, still, are his knees. Gardy will keep him fresh behind the plate by giving him an occasional break by allowing him to DH. Also, after one full season, I believe he will have even better chemistry with the starting pitching and relievers. (Although to be fair, I thought he had great chemistry with them last season.)
Redmond will again be backing up Joe this year. Not quite the hitter that Mauer is, he is solid behind the plate. His experience in the majors should also help, as he may continue to play a "mentoring" role for Joe.
1st Base
No surprise here, but Justin Morneau will be our starting 1st baseman this year again. Last year was disappointing, mainly because offensively he couldn't get on track. The lack of offensive productivity from Justin was probably due to the fact that in the off season he suffered many ailments. With a much healthier off season, his numbers should improve. Most experts have him batting in the 6th slot. Defensively he is not quite at the level of his predecessor at first base (Doug Meintkiewicz), but his skills have been improving greatly.
2nd Base
In the off season, the Twins traded for Marlins 2nd Baseman, Luis Castillo. A multiple gold glove winner, defensively the Twins improved greatly at 2nd base. Last year, you might never know who would be playing 2nd base. The season started with Luis Rivas, then Punto, the failed experiment with Bret Boone, Cuddyer, Luis Rodriguez, etc. Offensively, Castillo is slated to hit in the 2nd slot initially. This may seem a little uncharacteristic for someone that is a genuine base stealer, but Shannon Stewart's OBP and ability to have long, productive at-bats will keep Castillo in that 2nd slot. The only concern about Castillo is that he has had some injury problems that past few seasons.
Short Stop
Jason Bartlett will again resume the role when the season begins. In his rookie season, Bartlett showed many that he could play at the Major league level, and at the same time, was a rookie. With one season under his belt, Bartlett should be much improved defensively, which is exactly what the Twins expect of him. Offensively, what ever numbers he produces will be considered a bonus for the Twins. Last year he showed at times a great eye, but overall was impatient. His offense (and defense) improved after a brief move down to AAA. This year he will be hitting in the 8 or 9 slot.
3rd Base
Michael Cuddyer will no longer be playing 3rd base this season. The Twin's 1 year experiment with him at 3rd could be considered a failure. In the off season, the Twins acquired Tony Batista. Batista, after a season in Japan, has returned to the Major League in a Twins uniform. Defensively he is solid at 3rd, although not spectacular. No one is quite sure of his conditioning, and that combined with his age could mean a less mobile body playing at 3rd. However, his experience should negate any affects of his aging body (or playing Cuddyer) at 3rd. Reports out of spring training though have Batista reporting in 20 lbs. over his ideal playing weight, reinforcing many people's belief that he is not Major League shape, yet. I'm not quite sold on Batista at 3rd, but I will admit that he is a major improvement from last year's experiment.
Overall thought of the infield
The Twins should be improved this year in the infield, however there are questions. 1) Will Batista be in Major League shape at the start of the season? 2) Will Bartlett be improved this season? 3) Can Morneau regain his offensive capabilities that he showed off in his rookie season (2004)? 4) Will Castillo stay healthy? 5) Mauer's Knees?
The Twins are improved in the infield, but is it enough to play ball with the ChiSox and Cleveland?
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Twins Rotation
What has it been, like 4 to 6 weeks since I've posted. Shame on me. I wish I had some exciting excuse, but sadly no. Just work and real life taking time away from blogging. Oh well.
So, in honor of the late Kirby Puckett, I'm going to preview the 2006 MN Twins for you. (For a bit of what we've all been feeling about losing Mr. Puckett, check out grrrbear's post. His post about sums it up.
Rotation:
The Twins probably have one of the best rotations in baseball. #1, #2, and #3 could all easily be an opening day starter on any competitive team. This year the unquestioned #1 is Johan Santana. Last year, he followed up his Cy Young performance by being every bit as dominant. He did have a few problems early in the season as the pitching coaches were mucking with his mechanics. Why change his mechanics? Well, apparently some hitters thought he was tipping his pitches.
Brad Radke will be the number 2 guy. Hopefully his should is better, and with better run support should easily win 5 to 10 more games than last year. Although his velocity is stellar, it is good. However, when talking about Radke, you must mention control. The man can pitch to any part of the plate almost any time. With Radke it's just a matter of stamina (for the season) and not getting hurt. Oh, at individual at bats, it helps if he gets ahead of the batter. Of course, he only throws something like 90% first strike pitches.
#3 this year will still be Carlos Silva. Silva has probably been the best acquisition the Twins have made in recent years. Last year, he averaged something like .9 walks per 9 innings pitched, which is unbelievable. Again, he was injured last year, and hopefully should improve.
Kyle Loshe will continue to pitch in the 4th spot, until he is traded. Yup, you heard it here. I think Loshey will be traded. He and Gardy have had their run-ins, and frankly, after the 2002 season, he just hasn't performed like the Twins have wanted him to. However last year was an improvement. He lowered his ERA by 1.5 to a career low, and with more run support would have won 15 or more games. Why the turn around in ERA? Well, the pitching coaches had Kyle focus on 3 pitches. Prior to the 2005 season, Kyle was trying to perfect 5 different pitches. The most noticable loss was his 4 seam fast ball. By focusing on fewer pitches, they have been able to get Loshey to work the plate more. Although he is one of my favorites, he won't be playing in a Twins uniform at season's end.
Now the Number 5 spot. So, the Twins did not resign Joe Mays. Mays had a less than stellar return from Tommy John's surgery. Hopefully he'll do well for the Royals (at least, that's where I think he went.) With the 5 spot open, I predict it will go to the young Scott Baker. Many have their money on the exciting lefty, Francisco Liriano. I think Liriano still needs to improve a bit before being given the 5th spot. Baker on the other hand proved to me (and many others) that he can pitch at the Major League level. In his starts, he always was composed, even when teams where getting hits off him. Should Liriano be on the opening day roster, I would envision his role as that of a reliever. Many compare him to Santana, so I wouldn't think it out of the ordinary if they used the methods on Liriano as they did with Santana. Start in the bullpen, then move in as a starter.
Well, the next post I'll focus on the much different (can I say it, improved?) infield.
So, in honor of the late Kirby Puckett, I'm going to preview the 2006 MN Twins for you. (For a bit of what we've all been feeling about losing Mr. Puckett, check out grrrbear's post. His post about sums it up.
Rotation:
The Twins probably have one of the best rotations in baseball. #1, #2, and #3 could all easily be an opening day starter on any competitive team. This year the unquestioned #1 is Johan Santana. Last year, he followed up his Cy Young performance by being every bit as dominant. He did have a few problems early in the season as the pitching coaches were mucking with his mechanics. Why change his mechanics? Well, apparently some hitters thought he was tipping his pitches.
Brad Radke will be the number 2 guy. Hopefully his should is better, and with better run support should easily win 5 to 10 more games than last year. Although his velocity is stellar, it is good. However, when talking about Radke, you must mention control. The man can pitch to any part of the plate almost any time. With Radke it's just a matter of stamina (for the season) and not getting hurt. Oh, at individual at bats, it helps if he gets ahead of the batter. Of course, he only throws something like 90% first strike pitches.
#3 this year will still be Carlos Silva. Silva has probably been the best acquisition the Twins have made in recent years. Last year, he averaged something like .9 walks per 9 innings pitched, which is unbelievable. Again, he was injured last year, and hopefully should improve.
Kyle Loshe will continue to pitch in the 4th spot, until he is traded. Yup, you heard it here. I think Loshey will be traded. He and Gardy have had their run-ins, and frankly, after the 2002 season, he just hasn't performed like the Twins have wanted him to. However last year was an improvement. He lowered his ERA by 1.5 to a career low, and with more run support would have won 15 or more games. Why the turn around in ERA? Well, the pitching coaches had Kyle focus on 3 pitches. Prior to the 2005 season, Kyle was trying to perfect 5 different pitches. The most noticable loss was his 4 seam fast ball. By focusing on fewer pitches, they have been able to get Loshey to work the plate more. Although he is one of my favorites, he won't be playing in a Twins uniform at season's end.
Now the Number 5 spot. So, the Twins did not resign Joe Mays. Mays had a less than stellar return from Tommy John's surgery. Hopefully he'll do well for the Royals (at least, that's where I think he went.) With the 5 spot open, I predict it will go to the young Scott Baker. Many have their money on the exciting lefty, Francisco Liriano. I think Liriano still needs to improve a bit before being given the 5th spot. Baker on the other hand proved to me (and many others) that he can pitch at the Major League level. In his starts, he always was composed, even when teams where getting hits off him. Should Liriano be on the opening day roster, I would envision his role as that of a reliever. Many compare him to Santana, so I wouldn't think it out of the ordinary if they used the methods on Liriano as they did with Santana. Start in the bullpen, then move in as a starter.
Well, the next post I'll focus on the much different (can I say it, improved?) infield.
PIR, State Tourney, CRT's, Ski-Trips
It sure has been a long time since I've posted. As you can probably guess, work has been extremely busy. The little free time I have I usually sit in a vegetative state, rather than blogging.
So here's what has been happening and will be happening at school.
Monday was a PIR day. For the uninitiated, PIR stands for Pupil-Instruction-Related day. Basically it means the students have the day off and teachers have to go to school. The nice thing about our PIR was that it was 3 blocks from home, instead of the 50 miles I usually have to travel to get to work. It was a day long presentation by Jerry Mills. Going into the presentation, I wasn't looking forward to it, but in the end, I did enjoy it. I didn't really learn much new, but he was a very good and entertaining speaker. His main focus was At-Risk students and how he has dealt with them throughout his life/career.
The other big news is the our Girls Basketball Team came in Second in the Divisional Tournament last weekend and will be moving on to the state tournament this Thursday and Friday (and hopefully Saturday). This is the first time in 20 years the girls have qualified for state. As a result, there will be very few students in school the next couple of days. Yes, we are still having school. I estimate that at least 30 to 40 students will be absent in the Junior High and High school. Considering that we have about 75 students in grades 7 through 12, a good number will be gone. Maybe I can get some work done while everyone is away at state.
Next week will be just as messed up as this week. Next Tuesday and Wednesday, we will be administering the CRT's mandated by NCLB. The CRT's are the Criterion Referenced Tests (which are different than the NRT's - Norm Referenced Tests, aka ITBS.). Two days after the CRT's, most of the high school will be "absent" because it will be one of our two Ski days. This year, students will be traveling to Showdown with our neighboring school on March 17th, and then on the 27th, our neighboring school will be traveling with us to Red Lodge.
Also, track starts next week. The ITBS will be given the 2nd week in April. So between now and Easter, I will only 16 days that will be uninterrupted with no distractions. Sadly, that means their will be 11 days where the students will be here, but I won't be teaching them a thing. With all these tests (and other activities) it is a wonder that the students learn ANYTHING in March and April.
So here's what has been happening and will be happening at school.
Monday was a PIR day. For the uninitiated, PIR stands for Pupil-Instruction-Related day. Basically it means the students have the day off and teachers have to go to school. The nice thing about our PIR was that it was 3 blocks from home, instead of the 50 miles I usually have to travel to get to work. It was a day long presentation by Jerry Mills. Going into the presentation, I wasn't looking forward to it, but in the end, I did enjoy it. I didn't really learn much new, but he was a very good and entertaining speaker. His main focus was At-Risk students and how he has dealt with them throughout his life/career.
The other big news is the our Girls Basketball Team came in Second in the Divisional Tournament last weekend and will be moving on to the state tournament this Thursday and Friday (and hopefully Saturday). This is the first time in 20 years the girls have qualified for state. As a result, there will be very few students in school the next couple of days. Yes, we are still having school. I estimate that at least 30 to 40 students will be absent in the Junior High and High school. Considering that we have about 75 students in grades 7 through 12, a good number will be gone. Maybe I can get some work done while everyone is away at state.
Next week will be just as messed up as this week. Next Tuesday and Wednesday, we will be administering the CRT's mandated by NCLB. The CRT's are the Criterion Referenced Tests (which are different than the NRT's - Norm Referenced Tests, aka ITBS.). Two days after the CRT's, most of the high school will be "absent" because it will be one of our two Ski days. This year, students will be traveling to Showdown with our neighboring school on March 17th, and then on the 27th, our neighboring school will be traveling with us to Red Lodge.
Also, track starts next week. The ITBS will be given the 2nd week in April. So between now and Easter, I will only 16 days that will be uninterrupted with no distractions. Sadly, that means their will be 11 days where the students will be here, but I won't be teaching them a thing. With all these tests (and other activities) it is a wonder that the students learn ANYTHING in March and April.
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